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New SIM card improve signal strength?

I upgraded to a RAZR at the local T-mobile store 2 days ago. At the same time they decided to swap my SIM from the old Voicestream SIM to an official T-mobile SIM. The rep said the old SIM could accidently get erased and they're swaping with new SIMs for all customers.

Then she said the new SIM also improves signal strength/quality. Is this true or BS?

That's BS. SIMs sometimes go bad, but it's pretty rare. Some newer phones have issues with old SIMs so updating your SIM can resolve compatibility issues. Of course newer SIMs can also cause problems with some phones as well, in either case it should be fairly isolated. You SIM carries your network information and doesn't make a difference in your actual call quality.

Changing your sim card could change your network settings which will allow you to roam in certain instances on the 850 band (of course your phone has to have 850)... in which case, your signal does get a significant boost as 850 penetrates better and farther than 1900.

Changing your sim card could change your network settings which will allow you to roam in certain instances on the 850 band (of course your phone has to have 850)... in which case, your signal does get a significant boost as 850 penetrates better and farther than 1900.

Might not be total BS.

Sorry to burst you bubble but roaming on 850 is only available outside of T-Mobile's normal coverage areas, usually more rural areas where building penetration is usually less important.

Moreover having a newer sim is not required to roam on 850 or anywhere for that matter. Those updates take place all the time whether your sim is new or old.

About all a newer sim will really give you for certain is more capacity.